My family
OP - February 12, 2009, 02:24 AM
I was raised a Sunni Muslim, although looking at my life thus far, my family led a secular life. They still cling to the comfort blanket of Islam, but doesn't really practice it to the core. They didn't eat pork, drink wine or anything of the sort, but I hardly ever saw them pray five times a day. From the looks of it, I'd say my family is semi-religious.
Even though my family seems laid back, my father was the one that was most devout in my family. He was the one who actually made some effort to teach me Islam. He took me to the Jummah prayers, and would always play Quran recitation from a CD on the way to school. He also told me stories of the prophet. Due to his devotion to the religion, I believe, is what kept my family partially religious.
I always feared telling my parents about my Apostasy. I became a Murtad when I was 17. It wasn't until I was 19 is when I came open with it. I'm now 20.
When my parents first heard about my apostasy, it wasn't directly from me. There are only two kids in the family-my sister Samiah, who is seven years older than me, and then of course myself.
I told Samiah about it first. She was astonished, but all she said was "okay." Nothing else. I told her to keep it from my parents, as I wanted to be the one who would break it to them. It didn't workout as planned however.
The word of my apostasy quickly reached my dad, and I avoided talking to him over the phone about it. I live across the country from him. I figured, once I visit home, I'll talk to him face to face.
In December of 2008, is when I got the chance to speak with him about it. I went home for winter break.
I was extremely surprised about my dad's reaction. He wasn't upset, and he understood. He told me everyone have doubts about religion, and it's up to us to find our own way of life. He told me all he cares for is that I live a good and just life. He continuously told me he does not want to push Islam on me.
I was very glad to hear this coming from my father. Needless to say, I feel a lot more closer to him than I have before. My mother on the other hand, has a hard time accepting it. She's somewhat more superstitious than my dad when it comes to viewing life. My sister, just doesn't want to admit that I'm an Atheist. She keeps calling it a "phase." Whatever helps her sleep at night I guess.
All in all, I feel I had a clean break from Islam. I always figured Muslims would be hard headed when it comes to the issue of Apostasy. Although, that's mostly true, I know there are some out there who are open minded enough to listen. Then again, it turns out, that very bunch is usually not the most religious of folks. I personally prefer them over the hardcore religious types any day to mingle with.
Call me TAP TAP! for I am THE ASS PATTER!
Topic: My family